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Select Board waives procurement policy to buy ambulance expected by June; one member abstains
Summary
The Select Board approved waiving the town procurement policy to purchase a demonstration ambulance from Autotronics, citing faster delivery compared with other vendors; the vote was 4–0‑1 with Mr. Thurston abstaining.
Wolfeboro Fire Chief Tom Zotti told the Select Board on April 15 that the town needs to finalize an ambulance purchase that was authorized by a warrant article. Zotti presented written quotes from three vendors and recommended buying a demonstration vehicle from Autotronics Professional Vehicles (Madawaska, Maine), citing competitive pricing, necessary equipment and much faster delivery than other vendors, which reported 2–3 year lead times.
Chief Zotti said the demonstration unit would be newly built and available for delivery to the factory in May with final delivery before the end of June; licensing and inspections would follow. The chief said both ambulances would be in service before the end of 2026.
Mr. Deshaies moved to waive the procurement policy and proceed with the Autotronics purchase based on competitive quotes and timely delivery. The motion passed on a roll‑call vote: Mr. Senecal—YES; Mr. Deshaies—YES; Mrs. Murray—YES; Mr. Thurston—ABSTAIN; Mr. O’Brien—YES (tally 4–0–1).
The board recorded Mr. Thurston’s abstention. The packet included three written quotes; Mrs. Murray said having three quotes supported waiving the procurement policy and Mr. Deshaies emphasized delivery time as decisive.
Next steps: staff will finalize purchase paperwork and arrange for delivery and subsequent licensing and inspection prior to placing the ambulances into service.
